DeKalb County is named for Johann, Baron de Kalb, who was an American Revolutionary War hero and who lived from 1721 to 1780.

Created: February 7, 1835

County Seat:

Auburn 1837 – present

County Courthouse – Auburn

Location: 100 South Main Street / West 7th Street

Built: 1911 – 1912

Style: Greek Revival

Architect: Mahurin & Mahurin of Fort Wayne

Contractor: J B Goodall of Peru.

Description:The building faces west and is a three story stone structure. The center section of the west front projects from the main building and has a stone framed entrance on the first story. Two large columns rise from the second to third stories. Above is a pediment with clock. A balustrade runs along the roof line. The interior has a Florentine Art Glasss dome in the center of it, which is illuminated by sunlight during the day, and 60 electric lights at night. Under the dome is a veterans’ memorial, dedicated to the local veterans who have served.

Note: The courthouse also boasts a fairly unique timepiece – a Master Clock. This clock was constructed in 1912, by the Hahl Automatic Clock Company. This Master Clock still runs, and controls every clock in the building ( part of the Clock System that was originally installed. ).

Note: The first courthouse was built in 1843 but burned in 1864. The previous courthouse was constructed by Alpheus Wheelock, William Valleau and John McKay in 1864.